AI technology to detect heart disease in more patients

The researchers behind the pioneering DANARC project are developing a robot that can scan and diagnose cardiovascular disease. This automated solution that could reduce the growing waiting times and make a difference for patients – initially within the field of cardiology. In the long term, the robot can be further developed to scan other organs.

Echocardiography is a type of ultrasound examination that serves as a critical diagnostic tool and is performed as the first examination in the assessment and management of cardiovascular disease. In the DANARC project, clinicians and researchers will develop a robot intended to partially automate the examination process and to perform automatic image analysis using AI.

‘It’s an ambitious task, but we firmly believe it can be done. We have assembled a group of skilled experts to develop a robot that could become a vital part of the hospitals of the future and significantly improve patient care,’ says Axel Diederichsen, a clinical professor at SDU and OUH and one of the key drivers behind the pioneering project DANARC.

The design of the robot’s appearance and behaviour is developed through a user-driven process to ensure high levels of trust and acceptance of the technology. The evaluation will take place in various working groups involving cardiologists and experts in robotics, interaction design, health economics, and technology and innovation.

From clinical needs to applied solutions with growth potential

Every year, approximately 200,000 patients in Denmark undergo an ultrasound examination of the heart in connection with suspected or known heart disease. The number of patients to be examined is expected to grow in the future. This societal challenge calls for new solutions.

‘The healthcare system is under pressure due to staff shortages, and if an accurate, stable and reliable robot can take over some of the scans, healthcare professionals will have more time and energy to take care of the patients who need help the most,’ says Axel Diederichsen and continues,

‘Fortunately, the vast majority of the referred patients turn out to be healthy – and it is precisely these patients we expect the robot will be able to scan quickly and efficiently.

The DANARC project’s robot will thus benefit patients, who will experience shorter waiting times and greater flexibility, and the healthcare system, which can free up time for the many examinations.’